Departure and Planned Route
The aircraft departed Salt Lake City (SLC) at 0930 for a sightseeing cross-country trip to Heber City and return. According to the pilot, the plan was to fly through Lambs Canyon and Parley's Canyon.
Accident Sequence
At approximately 0955, the aircraft hit a tree and crashed in Lambs Canyon at an elevation of 8,040 feet above mean sea level (MSL). The terrain in the area varies from 6,000 feet to 10,246 feet MSL.
Injuries
The pilot sustained serious injuries. The passenger, who was a U.S. Navy pilot, was killed.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination found no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction of the airframe, engine, propeller, flight controls, or other systems and components.